South Africa is mourning the loss of renowned journalist Tshidi Madia, who passed away this morning following a short illness.
At the time of her passing of Madia was the EWN’s Associate Editor: Politics.
Her family confirmed her passing in a statement, describing her as a beloved daughter and sister who brought joy and love to all who knew her.
“A respected journalist, she loved South Africa deeply and devoted her career to telling its stories,” the family said.
Madia was widely admired for her dedication to journalism and her commitment to amplifying the voices and experiences of South Africans
EWN Editor-in-Chief, Nisa Allie said ‘Tshidi was the jewel in EWN’s crown. She was a powerhouse. She was brave. She was the consummate professional, who worked tirelessly in pursuit of the truth. She led by example, mentoring and training many young political journalists. She formed a formidable politics team, which she was so proud of, and delivered one exclusive after the next, with absolute humility and professionalism.
She constantly raised the bar for herself, juggling reporting and her editor responsibilities, daily. Laughter and robust debate would always surround Tshidi.
Outside of her public persona, Tshidi was fiercely loyal to her family and friends. Her no holds barred approach, seeped into every aspect of her life. She worked hard and loved even harder. The sun shines differently without you today, Matshidiso. Our thoughts, prayers and support are with Tshidi’s father, her siblings, her nephews and nieces, aunts and uncles, cousins and broader family.”
“Tshidi was known for her ability to engage with politicians across the political spectrum, asking tough questions while maintaining a professional and respectful demeanour. Her work was guided by a commitment to providing the public with a clear and empathetic understanding of how political events impact their daily lives.”
“Tshidi will be deeply missed by the millions of our listeners, viewers, and readers who followed her reporting for EWN as well as her contributions on 702, Cape Talk, 947, KFM, our websites, podcasts, and videos,” Jojwana said.
Primedia’s Group CEO Jonathan Procter said, “Tshidi was a force that I have seldom encountered in the many years of my media world experience, both locally and internationally. She was incredibly well connected, respected across the political spectrum with an excellent network of contacts whom she had nurtured over the years”.
“She will be greatly and sadly missed by me and the rest of the Primedia family. On behalf of all at Primedia, I send our condolences to her family and friends at this time of great grief,” said Procter.
Madia pursued her formal education at the University of Johannesburg, where she obtained her degree in communications with a focus on journalism and politics in 2008.
She then joined the first team at Power FM as a reporter and presenter before moving to News24 where Tshidi played a pivotal role in its politics reporting.
She returned to her broadcast home at EWN as a senior political reporter and was then promoted to Associate Editor: Politics.
With inputs from EWN.